Key assembly for vehicle ignition locks

ABSTRACT

A key assembly for mounting an electronic component in the head of the key. The electronic component is mounted in either an opening such as a bore or recess formed in the key head, or a carrier connected to the heel end of the key shank. In the former case, a closure member such as a plug or adhesively backed panel member is employed to close off the opening. In the latter case, the carrier is encapsulated within a plastic key head.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to vehicle keys, and more particularly, to a key assembly for use in an automobile steering column ignition and lock unit.

Various types of locks for use in connection with the ignition circuit of an automobile are known in the art. Many of such locks include anti-theft and/or anti-tampering mechanisms which are incorporated to deter unauthorized use of automobiles. Increasingly popular with the automotive industry is an electronic interlock operating in connection with the automobile ignition lock. An electronic interlock system uses a coded signal to enable starting of the automobile. Presently, the coded activation signal is read either electronically or optically within the ignition lock, and is subsequently sent to an electronic control module which controls engine operation based on whether a correct signal is received. Hence, an electronic interlock does not allow the lock to be bypassed or "hot wired", or pulled in order to start the automobile. As a result, automobile theft is more time consuming and difficult.

The keys employed with electronic interlock systems contain both mechanical and electronic interlock codes. One such system incorporates the use of a resistor pellet in an ignition key. The pellet provides for a resistor of known resistance so that upon insertion and rotation of the key in an automobile's ignition cylinder unit an electrical current is applied to and through the resistor. A decoding circuit performs a resistance comparison between the resistor in the pellet in the key and a known resistance "window". If the resistance is within the window, the automobile may be started. If the resistance does not match, the automobile will not start. Examples of such interlock systems and keys for use therewith are illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,250,482, 5,083,362, and 5,156,032.

In another electronic interlock system an optical code is employed to control engine operation. Currently, optical codes are in the form of a plurality of hole combinations physically formed in the key. The optical code is formed by utilizing a combination of large and small holes, read by the reader, and subsequently converted into an electronic signal. The activation signal is then sent to the electronic control module of the engine to enable ignition. As a result, a key having an erroneous hole combination will neither enable the ignition system nor start the automobile.

In still another electronic interlock system, there is utilized radio frequency identification (RFID) to enable or disable engine operation. An RFID interlock system consists of a reader which sends a power pulse to an antenna which in turn generates an electromagnetic field. This field energizes a small transponder mounted in the key, which in turn transmits a unique identification code back to the reader via the antenna where it is decoded. If the signal sent by the transponder is a valid identification code, the reader transmits this information to the automobile's electronic control module which in turn enables engine operation. However, if the signal is invalid, the reader transmits this information to the electronic control module which then prevents engine startup. Typically, the antenna generates a relatively high energy RF field which is received by a coil in the transponder, converted to DC voltage and used to supply the transponder's electronic circuitry. The transponder's circuitry in turn transmits its unique identification code in the form of a low energy electromagnetic RF field which is received by the antenna and is in turn decoded by the reader as described above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a key assembly and more particularly to the mounting of an electronic component in the key. The electronic component is preferably a transponder for an RFID electronic interlock system for an automobile ignition lock, and preferably the transponder is mounted in the head of the key.

One aspect of the invention relates to mounting the electronic component in an opening formed in the key head, and utilizing a closure member to close off the opening. In one embodiment, the opening comprises a bore adapted to receive the electronic component and a plug for closing off the opening. Preferably, the bore is orientated in alignment with the elongated shank of the key, and includes a blind end which is spaced from the key shank. In another embodiment, the opening comprises a recess for receiving the electronic component formed in one side of a key head. In this embodiment, the closure member comprises an adhesively backed panel member covering the open top of the recess. In a third embodiment, the opening extends completely through the key head and has a central section for receiving the electronic component together with a pair of opposite panel-receiving outer sections opening to opposite sides of the key head. The outer sections are then closed off by a pair of adhesively backed panel members in a manner similar to the second embodiment except that the electronic component is sandwiched between the first and second panel members. In a fourth embodiment, the key head comprises a base member and a cover member, the opening comprises a recess formed in one of these two members, and the closure member comprises the other of the two members. In this embodiment, the base member and cover member are attached together so that the electronic component is sandwiched between the base member and cover member. Preferably, the attachment is in the form of a snap lock assembly. Also, the base member and cover member may either be separate or may be hinged together if desired.

In another aspect of the invention, the mounting arrangement includes a carrier connected to the heel end of the key shank. The heel end of the key shank includes an open frame member which either encircles the carrier or is U-shaped with the carrier attached to opposite sides of the frame member. In one form, the carrier comprises a flat base, a recess formed in the base for receiving the electronic component and attachment means for attaching the base to the frame member. Preferably, the carrier orientates the electronic component in alignment with the elongated key shank. When the heel end of the key shank is U-shaped, the carrier may comprise a hollow cylindrical base dimensioned to receive the electronic component and wing members extending in opposite directions from the cylindrical base for attaching the carrier to the opposite legs of the frame member. Attachment of the carrier may either be by pins interconnecting the legs of the frame with the carrier, or hollow sleeves for slidably receiving the ends of the legs of the U-shaped frame member. In still another embodiment, the carrier may comprise a flat base, a component receiving recess formed in the base, a pair of leg receiving recesses formed in the base and disposed on opposite sides of the component receiving recess, a cover member cooperating with the base to enclose the component receiving recess, and attachment means for attaching the base and cover together. In this embodiment, the carrier together with the electronic component is molded within a plastic key head. Preferably, the attachment of the base and cover member is by means of a snap lock assembly, and the base and cover members may either be separate or hingedly interconnected with one another.

The present invention thus provides numerous simple and convenient assemblies for mounting an electronic component within the head of a key.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate the best mode presently contemplated of carrying out the invention.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary side view of an automobile ignition lock incorporating an RFID electronic interlock system;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of a first embodiment of a key utilized in the electronic interlock system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the key of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 4--4 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a side view of a second embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 6--6 in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 7--7 in FIG. 5:

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a side view of a fifth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 11--11 in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a side view with parts in cross section of a sixth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 13--13 in FIG. 12:

FIG. 14 is a side view with parts in cross section of a seventh embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 15--15 in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a side view with parts in cross section of an eighth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 17--17 in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a ninth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a side view with parts in cross section of the key assembly of FIG. 18 with the carrier closed and the key head shown in cross section;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 20--20 in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a side view with parts in cross section of a tenth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention; and

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane of the line 22--22 in FIG. 21.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an automobile ignition lock generally designated by the numeral 1 incorporating an RFID electronic interlock. There are three major components of the RFID interlock, namely, a transponder 2, an antenna 3 and a reader (not shown). The reader is contained within an RFID ignition module (not shown) along with a logic circuit and a control circuit. More specifically, the present invention includes an antenna 3 in the form of a wire coil which generates an RF electromagnetic field in response to a power pulse generated by the reader. This RF electromagnetic field energizes transponder 2 contained in key 4, which in turn transmits a unique RF identification code or signal back to the reader via antenna. 3. The reader then translates the ID code into a digital form and forwards the digital ID code to the logic circuit which verifies that the ID signal is a valid ID signal. If the signal received is valid, the reader sends an enable signal to the automobile engine control module (not shown) which in turn controls engine operation, e.g. fuel injection, ignition spark, etc. If the ID signal is invalid, the logic circuit sends a reject signal to the control circuit so that engine operation is not enabled. Power for the system is received from the automobile battery (not shown).

Transponder 2 is mounted in head 5 of key 4 and consists of an approximately 3.8×22 millimeter glass encapsulated transponder such as that available from Texas Instruments under Model No. RI-TRP-RRHP-06. Also, instead of the single antenna 3 illustrated in FIG. 1, the system may alternately contain two coils, i.e. an exciter coil and a receiving coil, such as the type available from Hughes Identification Devices under Model No. HS51051 hand held reader.

When transponder 2 is to be read, key 4 is inserted into the keyway of ignition lock 1 and turned to close the automobile ignition switch. Battery voltage is thus applied to the engine control module which turns on the RFID ignition module causing the reader to send out a 134.2 KHz power pulse to antenna 3 lasting approximately 50 milliseconds. Antenna 3 thus generates a relatively high energy radio frequency field. This field is received by a coil or antenna (not shown) in transponder 2 that is tuned to the same frequency, and converted to DC voltage by a bridge rectifier in transponder 2. This DC voltage is then regulated down, stored in a small capacitor within transponder 2 and used to supply the transponder's electronic circuitry. When the power pulse is finished, the transponder circuitry immediately transmits back a signal that carries the data that is stored within transponder 2, using the energy stored within its capacitor as the power source. The data is a unique factory programmed 64 bit identification code. This circuitry transmits the identification code in the form of frequency shift keying on a low energy electromagnetic field. The modulated ID signal sent by transponder 2 is thus received by antenna 3 and is in turn decoded by the reader by translating the RF signal to a digital ID code or signal and sending the digital code to the logic circuit. The digital signal is then verified as a valid ID code which in turn will enable engine operation or an invalid ID code which will prevent engine operation. Once all data has been sent the storage capacitor within transponder 2 is discharged, thereby resetting transponder 2 to make it ready for the next read cycle. The total read cycle lasts about 120 milliseconds.

Ignition lock 1 includes a hollow cylindrical sleeve 6 which in turn is fixed within a housing 7. Housing 7 may, for example, comprise a steering column of an automobile although it is within the scope of the present invention to mount the lock in any desired location. Sleeve 6 includes a cylindrical outer surface 8 and a cylindrical inner surface 9 which receives an elongated rotatable cylinder 10 therein. As shown, the rearward end of cylinder 10 is to the left in FIG. 1 while the forward end of cylinder 10 is to the right in FIG. 1 adjacent wall 11 of the steering column housing. Cylinder 10 includes a cylindrical outer surface 12 which forms a rotational interface with inner surface 9 of sleeve 6. Cylinder 10 is rotatable by key 4 between an off position and a start position when cylinder 10 is rotated in a clockwise direction from the position shown in FIG. 1. After starting, cylinder 10 rotates in a counterclockwise direction from the start position to a run position, as is conventional. Cylinder 10 includes a plurality of axially spaced tumblers (not shown) engageable with the bits or notches in key 4 to cooperate with a side bar 13 in the conventional manner. Although lock 1 is illustrated as utilizing a construction having side bar 13, the present invention may also be utilized with non-side bar locks, e.g. those using only tumblers for locking engagement between cylinder 10 and sleeve 6.

As shown in FIG. 1, antenna 3 is integrally molded within an annular module: 14. Antenna 3 is located at the forward end of sleeve 6 and cylinder 10. This location for antenna 3 provides a desirable position to avoid interference with the electromagnetic field emanating from antenna 3 by the metallic composition of sleeve 6 and cylinder 10. Thus, when assembled on sleeve 6, the wire of antenna 3 is wrapped about sleeve 6 and cylinder 10 to thus form an annular coil having a central opening which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of lock 1. Module 14 is in the form of an annular ring that may have an inner diameter which is dimensioned to provide a mechanical fit with the outer surface 8 of sleeve 6. Thus, module 14 may be slid over the forward end of sleeve 6 and received within and fixedly mounted on sleeve 6 in any convenient manner. For example, module 14 may be staked or snapped in place to insure that it is integrally mounted on sleeve 6.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-4, there is illustrated a first embodiment for mounting transponder 2 in key head 5 of key 4. As shown, key 4 includes an elongated shank 15 having a toe end 16 and a heel end 17. Key head 5 is integrally attached to the heel end 17 of shank 15 as by pins 18 which are formed during the molding of head 5. As shown best in FIG. 3, the mounting means for transponder 2 comprises an opening or bore 19 formed in the key head and dimensioned to receive transponder 2, and a closure member or plug 20 adapted to close off bore 19. Bore 19 includes a blind end adapted to engage transponder 2 and an open end opening to one end of key head 5. As shown best in FIG. 3, the blind end of bore 19 is spaced from heel end 17 of shank 15, and the longitudinal axis of bore 19 is in alignment with elongated shank 15. As shown, bore 19 opens to the rear end of key head 5. However, it is contemplated that the open end of bore 19 may open to any surface of key head 5 whether it be top surface 21, bottom surface 22, rear surface 23, or opposite sides 24 and 25. Preferably, plug 20 is composed of the same plastic material as that utilized to form key head 5, such as Polypropylene Himont 7523. A cushioning material such as a silicon compound may also be supplied in the bore 19 when transponder 2 is installed.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-7, there is illustrated a second embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention wherein a key 26 includes a shank 27 having a toe end 28 and a heel end 29 and a head 30 composed of a plastic material integrally molded on heel end 29 in the same manner as illustrated in FIG. 3. In this second embodiment, however, transponder 2 is mounted within an opening comprising a substantially T-shaped recess 31 formed in one side 32 of key head 30. Recess 31 is dimensioned to receive transponder 2 and in this regard is dimensioned to substantially correspond with the dimensions of transponder 2. A cushioning material such as a silicon compound may also be supplied in the recess 31 when transponder 2 is installed. Recess 31 has a closed bottom end 33 and an open top end 34 opening to side 32 of key head 30. FIG. 6 illustrates closure member 35 as being an adhesively backed panel member which covers transponder 2 and is received within open top 34 to provide a relatively smooth side 32 for key 26. It should be noted that although recess 31 is illustrated as opening toward side 32 of key head 30, it is contemplated that recess 31 could open to any surface of key head 30 including top surface 36, bottom surface 37, rear surface 38 or side surface 39 in addition to side 32. Panel member 35 may be of any desired configuration, but preferably may incorporate a "medallion" or logo of the automobile manufacturer.

Referring now to FIG. 8 there is illustrated a third embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. The key assembly of FIG. 8, is substantially identical to the key assembly of FIGS. 5-7 with the exception that the opening for receiving transponder 2 extends completely through key head 40 from one side 41 to its opposite side 42. As shown in FIG. 8, the opening formed in key head 40 includes a central section 43 for receiving the transponder 2 and a pair of opposite outer sections 44 and 45 opening to opposite sides 41 and 42, respectively, of key head 40. A cushioning material such as a silicon compound may also be supplied in section 43 when transponder 2 is installed. In this embodiment, the closure member for the opening extending through key head 40 comprises a pair of adhesively backed panel members 46 and 47 received within outer sections 44 and 45 respectively for covering the opening in key head 40 so that transponder 2 is sandwiched between members 46 and 47. Thus, panel members 46 and 47 may once again include medallions or logos which can be seen from opposite sides 41 and 42 of key head 40.

Referring now to FIG. 9, there is illustrated a fourth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. In this embodiment, the key head, which is generally designated by the numeral 48, is formed in two parts, namely, a base member 49 and a cover member 50. As shown, base member 49 is attached to heel end 51 of key shank 52 via pins 53. The opening for receiving transponder 2 comprises a recess 54 formed in base member 49 dimensioned to correspond with transponder 2 and thereby receive transponder 2 therein. A cushioning material such as a silicon compound may also be supplied in recess 54 when transponder 2 is installed. In this embodiment, the closure member which is adapted to close off the opening for recess 54 comprises the cover member 50 itself. In order to accomplish this, cover member 50 is attached to base member 49 by a snap lock assembly which includes fingers 55 projecting from base member 49 and passageways 56 formed in cover member 50 for receiving fingers 55. Thus, cover member 50 is assembled on base member 49 merely by aligning fingers 55 in passageways 56 and forcing members 49 and 50 together to thereby sandwich transponder 2 therebetween in recess 54. Cover member 50 may also be sonic welded to base member 49, or be adhesively attached together.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, there is illustrated a fifth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. Essentially, this embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9 except base member 57 and cover member 58 of key head 59 are interconnected by means of a living hinge 60 along their bottom edges. Thus, as illustrated, base member 57 is integrally attached to heel end 61 of key shank 62 via pins 63. Heel end 61 comprises a U-shaped frame member having opposite legs 66. Transponder 2 is mounted within a recess 64 formed in base member 57 which, once again, is dimensioned to receive transponder 2. A cushioning material such as a silicon compound may also be supplied in recess 64 when transponder 2 is installed. Transponder 2 is preferably orientated along a longitudinal axis disposed in alignment with key shank 62, and accordingly, a corresponding recess 65 is formed in cover member 58 so that proper alignment of transponder 2 with key shank 62 can be accomplished. As with the embodiment of FIG. 9, base member 57 and cover member 58 are attached together by means of a snap lock assembly comprising a pair of fingers 67 projecting from base member 57 received within passageways 68 formed in cover member 58. Thus, cover member 58 need only be pivoted toward base member 57 until fingers 67 are received within passageways 68 and pins 63 are received within blind holes 68a so that transponder 2 is sandwiched between members 57 and 58, as shown best in FIG. 11. Cover member 58 may also be sonic welded to base member 57, or they may be adhesively attached together.

Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, there is illustrated a sixth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. As shown, key shank 69 includes a toe end 70 and a heel end 71. Heel end 71 includes an open rectangular-shaped frame member forming a loop consisting of legs 72-75 which encircles a carrier 76 for transponder 2. Carrier 76 includes a flat base 77, a component receiving recess 78 formed in base 77 and attachment means for attaching base 77 to heel end 71. As shown best in FIG. 13, recess 78 is elongated and dimensioned to substantially match the dimensions of transponder 2 so that transponder 2 is orientated along a longitudinal axis disposed in alignment with the longitudinal axis of key shank 69. As shown best in FIG. 13, the attachment means for attaching base 77 of carrier 76 to the heel end 71 of key shank 69 comprises pins 79 at one end of carrier 76 received within leg 72 and a pair of pins 80 at the opposite end of carrier 76 received within leg 74. Pins 79 and 80 are received within corresponding openings formed in legs 72 and 74 to temporarily mount carrier 76 and transponder 2 to the heel end 71 of key shank 69. Thereafter, key head 81 is integrally molded over heel end 71, legs 72-75, carrier 76 and transponder 2.

Referring now to FIGS. 14-15, there is illustrated a seventh embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. In this embodiment, key shank 82 includes a heel end 83 which is substantially U-shaped having a pair of opposite spaced-apart legs 84 and 85. In this embodiment, the mounting arrangement for a transponder 2 once again comprises a carrier generally designated by the numeral 86. Carrier 86 comprises a hollow cylindrical base 87 dimensioned to receive transponder 2, and four wing members 88-91 extending from base 87 to attach base 87 and transponder 2 to legs 84 and 85 of heel end 83 of key shank 82. As shown best in FIG. 15, each wing member 88-91 is integral at one end with base 87 and includes a pin 92 at its outer end for interconnection with legs 84 and 85 of the U-shaped frame member or heel end 83. Thus, carrier 86 is mounted on legs 84 and 85 of the U-shaped frame member by inserting pins 92 into corresponding openings in legs 84 and 85 to initially attach carrier 86 and transponder 2 in place. Thereafter, key head 93 is integrally molded over carrier 86, heel end 83, and legs 84 and 85 to affix transponder in position orientated along a longitudinal axis which is in alignment with the longitudinal axis of the key shank 82.

Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, there is illustrated an eighth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. In this embodiment, key shank 94 includes a heel end 95 which is substantially U-shaped having a pair of opposite spaced-apart legs 96 and 97. In this embodiment, the mounting arrangement for a transponder 2 once again comprises a carrier generally designated by the numeral 98. Carrier 98 comprises a hollow cylindrical base 99 dimensioned to receive transponder 2, and two wing members 100-101 extending from base 99 to attach base 99 and transponder 2 to legs 96 and 97 of heel end 95 of key shank 94. As shown best in FIG. 16, each wing member 100-101 is integral at one end with base 99 and includes cylindrical sleeves 102 and 103 respectively for slidably receiving legs 96 and 97 of the U-shaped frame member. Thereafter, key head 104 is integrally molded over heel end 95, carrier 98 and legs 96 and 97 to affix transponder 2 in position orientated along a longitudinal axis which is in alignment with the longitudinal axis of the key shank 94.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-20, there is illustrated a ninth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. In this embodiment, key shank 105 once again includes a heel end 106 formed as a substantially U-shaped frame member having a pair of opposite spaced-apart legs 107 and 108. The ends of legs 107 and 108 each include bosses 109 and 110 respectively which are utilized to mount a carrier 111 thereon. Carrier 111 comprises a flat base 112, a component receiving recess 113 formed in base 112, a pair of leg receiving recesses 114 and 115 formed in base 112 and disposed on opposite sides of the component receiving recess 113 for receiving legs 107 and 108 as well as bosses 109 and 110. Carrier 111 further includes a cover member 116 which cooperates with base member 112 to enclose recesses 113-115 and mount transponder 2 therein. Since transponder 2 is orientated along a longitudinal axis disposed in alignment with the longitudinal axis of the elongated key shank 105, it is necessary that cover member 116 also include recesses 117-119 corresponding to recesses 113-115, as is best shown in FIG. 20. Base member 112 and cover member 116 are pivotally connected together by means of hinge 120 extending along their bottom sides. As a means for attaching base member 112 and cover member 116 together to sandwich transponder 2 therebetween, base member 112 includes a pair of projecting pins 121 and cover member 116 includes a pair of corresponding passageways 122 which, as shown best in FIG. 20, provide a snap-lock assembly for interconnecting members 112 and 116. Thereafter, key head 123 may be integrally molded over carrier 111 and legs 107-108 and the heel end 106 of key shank 105 to fixedly secure transponder 2 in its desired location with respect to key shank 105.

FIGS. 21-22 illustrate a tenth embodiment of the key assembly of the present invention. In this embodiment, key shank 125 includes a heel end 126 integrally-attached to a carrier 127 for transponder 2 by pins 128 which are formed during the molding of carrier 127. In other words, carrier 127 is integrally molded around transponder 2 and is simultaneously attached to heel end 126. Thereafter, key shank 125 and carrier 127 with transponder 2 therein are insert molded within an outer shell 129 composed of a plastic material so that shell 129 and carrier 127 form the key head 130. The material for shell 129 may be the same or different from the material for carrier 127.

Various modes of carrying out the invention are contemplated as being within the scope of the following claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter regarded as the invention. 

We claim:
 1. A key for a lock, comprising:a key shank having a toe end and a heel end, the heel end including an open frame member, said frame member substantially U-shaped and having a pair of opposed spaced apart legs; a key head attached to the heel end of the shank; an electric component having a precoded identification means therein; mounting means for mounting said electronic component in said key head, said mounting means comprising a carrier attached to said frame member; attachment means for attaching said carrier to said frame member, said attachment means comprising wing members extending from a hollow base, each wing member including a hollow sleeve for slidably receiving one of the legs of said U-shaped frame member. 